F/A 18C vs F/A 18A - How similar are they? (the end point is an RCAF CF 188)

Modeling Subjects Aircraft
1

Hi

been pursuing this topic for a while now… I can get lots of F/A 18Cs but not so many F/A18A kits (i’ve been looking at the Hasegawa range). How similar/Different are the A and C versions? I want to build an RCAF CF 188 Hornet with the kit.

DO all the Hasegawa A/C hornets have recessed panel lines?

2

The main differences seem to be internally (stores management, processing power…), external differences seem to be mainly on additional antennas;

ALQ126B/165,

ALQ-165,

ALQ-165 (3),

ALQ-67.

Its the addition of some of these that give the C is 5 grouped antennas on the lower nose / fuselage.

3

Hobby Boss has a 1/48 F-18A out. It looks like a good kit.

4

If you want to build a really cool looking C, check out the Revell-Germany Hornet in 1/144 scale - it has special decals for the 20th anniversary of Canada having its Plastic Bugs. I’m building that kit now as a USN bird, but the decals for the Canadian version sure look nice!

5

IIRC the CF-188 also has a portside spotlight that US versions lack.

6

Yep, I do not know of a 1/48 set to make a RCAF bird. But 1/32 you can make one out of the kit.

7

I’m currently building a CF 188.

I don’t know if a budget is a concern or not but what I have is the 1/32 Academy F/A18-C and there is an awesome aftermarket conversion set to convert to an A. I’m at work but I’ll dig it up later and post a link.

8

Here it is. Very nice set. The Academy kit is wonderfull and it has the spotlight on the side. You just have to sand off a few antenas.

http://www.vmdstudios.com/PhotoGallery.asp?ProductCode=AV32011